53.243
Contract modifications (SF 30)
SF 30 is the mandatory form for most contract modifications and amendments, and contracting officers must ensure effective dates are entered correctly for terminations and settlements.
Overview
FAR 53.243 prescribes the use of Standard Form 30 (SF 30) for contract modifications and amendments to solicitations. SF 30 is required for amending invitations for bids, modifying purchase and delivery orders, and modifying contracts as referenced in various FAR sections. The form is also used for amending solicitations for negotiated contracts. The section provides specific instructions for the effective date (Item 3) on the form when used for confirming notices of termination for convenience and for confirming previous letter determinations of settlement amounts. The effective date in these cases must match the date of the initial notice or previous determination letter, ensuring consistency and clarity in contract administration.
Key Rules
- Use of SF 30
- SF 30 must be used for contract modifications, amendments to solicitations, and certain purchase/delivery order modifications as specified in referenced FAR sections.
- Effective Date Requirements
- When SF 30 is used to confirm a notice of termination for convenience, the effective date must match the initial notice.
- When confirming a previous letter determination of settlement amount, the effective date must match the date of that determination.
Responsibilities
- Contracting Officers: Must use SF 30 for applicable modifications and ensure correct effective dates are entered as prescribed.
- Contractors: Must review and acknowledge modifications issued via SF 30 and ensure compliance with the updated terms.
- Agencies: Must oversee proper use of SF 30 and adherence to effective date requirements for contract modifications.
Practical Implications
- This section ensures standardized documentation for contract modifications and amendments, reducing confusion and legal risk.
- Accurate use of effective dates is critical for enforceability and clarity in contract administration, especially in terminations for convenience.
- Common pitfalls include using the wrong form or entering incorrect effective dates, which can delay contract actions or create disputes.